Netflix is set to captivate football fans and documentary lovers alike with its latest sports feature, *The Underdog*, which chronicles the extraordinary and unconventional journey of former NFL linebacker Luke Kuechly. Premiering on June 25, the film delves deep into the life of one of the most intelligent and relentless defensive players the game has ever seen, exploring his rise from an underrated high school prospect to a dominant force in the NFL. What makes Kuechly’s story so compelling isn’t just his on-field brilliance but the quiet determination, relentless work ethic, and unassuming personality that set him apart in a league often defined by flash and bravado.
Luke Kuechly’s path to football greatness was anything but typical. Growing up in Cincinnati, Ohio, he wasn’t the most hyped recruit. Despite his obvious talent, he flew under the radar, overlooked by many major college programs. His high school career at St. Xavier was impressive, but scouts questioned whether his skills would translate to the next level. He lacked the prototypical size and speed that often dominate recruiting headlines, but what he did have was an unmatched football IQ, an insatiable appetite for preparation, and a motor that never quit. Boston College, a program known for developing tough, disciplined players, saw something special in him—and that bet paid off in ways no one could have predicted.
*The Underdog* doesn’t just rehash Kuechly’s accolades—though there are plenty to cover. From his record-breaking college career, where he won the Butkus Award, Lombardi Award, and Nagurski Trophy, to his immediate impact in the NFL with the Carolina Panthers, the documentary paints a portrait of a player who defied expectations at every turn. But more than that, it humanizes him. Unlike many sports documentaries that focus solely on triumphs, this film doesn’t shy away from the challenges Kuechly faced—both physically and mentally. His relentless style of play took a toll on his body, and his early retirement at just 28 years old shocked the football world. The documentary provides an intimate look at the factors behind that decision, including his concerns about long-term health and the emotional weight of stepping away from the game he loved.
One of the most fascinating aspects of *The Underdog* is its exploration of Kuechly’s unique approach to the game. While many linebackers rely on raw athleticism, Kuechly was a student of football, dissecting offenses with the precision of a chess grandmaster. Teammates and coaches interviewed in the film describe his ability to diagnose plays before they happened, as if he had a sixth sense for where the ball was going. Former Panthers coach Ron Rivera recalls moments when Kuechly would adjust the entire defense mid-play, shouting out adjustments that often led to game-changing stops. His preparation was legendary—hours of film study, meticulous note-taking, and an obsessive attention to detail that set a new standard for defensive players.
Yet, for all his intensity on the field, Kuechly was famously humble off it. The documentary captures his down-to-earth personality, featuring interviews with family, friends, and teammates who describe a man who never sought the spotlight. In a league where self-promotion is often part of the game, Kuechly’s quiet leadership and team-first mentality made him a rarity. The film includes touching moments, like his interactions with young fans and his commitment to community work in Charlotte, showcasing the kind of person he was beyond the helmet and pads.
Another layer the documentary explores is Kuechly’s relationship with the city of Charlotte and the Panthers organization. Drafted ninth overall in 2012, he quickly became the heart and soul of the defense, leading the team to a Super Bowl appearance in the 2015 season. That year, the Panthers’ defense was one of the most feared in the league, and Kuechly’s play earned him Defensive Player of the Year honors. But the film doesn’t just celebrate the highs—it also revisits the crushing loss in Super Bowl 50 and how Kuechly processed that disappointment. His emotional post-game interview, where he fought back tears while praising his teammates, remains one of the most raw and genuine moments in recent NFL history, and the documentary gives viewers a deeper understanding of what that moment meant to him.
Perhaps the most poignant part of *The Underdog* is its handling of Kuechly’s retirement. In 2020, after eight stellar seasons, he walked away from the game at an age when many players are still in their prime. The decision stunned fans, but for those who knew him best, it wasn’t entirely surprising. The documentary reveals how concussions and the physical toll of the sport weighed on him, leading to sleepless nights and difficult conversations with loved ones. Rather than romanticizing football’s brutality, the film presents an honest, sometimes sobering look at the sacrifices players make—and the difficult choices they face when their bodies tell them it’s time to stop. Kuechly’s retirement press conference, where he struggled to hold back tears while thanking the Panthers organization, is a central moment in the film, underscoring the deep emotional connection he had to the game and the people in it.
Since retiring, Kuechly has remained involved in football as a mentor and occasional analyst, but he’s also embraced life beyond the field. The documentary follows him as he explores new passions, from fishing to philanthropy, showing a man at peace with his decision and excited for the next chapter. For fans who admired his playing days, it’s a satisfying glimpse into how one of the game’s greats has transitioned to life after football.
*The Underdog* isn’t just a highlight reel of tackles and interceptions—it’s a thoughtful, deeply personal story about perseverance, intelligence, and the cost of greatness. Netflix has crafted a documentary that will resonate not just with football fans but with anyone who appreciates a story about an underdog who refused to be counted out. By focusing on Kuechly’s quiet brilliance rather than flashy theatrics, the film stands out in a crowded field of sports documentaries. It’s a tribute to a player who redefined what it meant to be a linebacker and a man who stayed true to himself in a world that often rewards the opposite.
When *The Underdog* premieres on June 25, viewers will get more than just a recap of a stellar career—they’ll get an intimate, moving portrait of one of football’s most unique and respected figures. Whether you’re a Panthers fan, a football enthusiast, or simply someone who loves an inspiring story, this is a documentary that will leave a lasting impression. Luke Kuechly’s journey was never about fame or accolades; it was about the love of the game, the pursuit of excellence, and the courage to walk away on his own terms. And that’s a story worth telling.
